In a Moment of Silence – December 02, 2001
Near the end of each year comes a wonderful feeling that is almost universal. It’s a feeling that fills the air like the sound of a beautifully sung hymn. It brings people together in joyful celebration. We call it the Christmas spirit.
Much has been said over the years about the true spirit of Christmas—what it is and what it isn’t. It may be hard to define exactly, but we know it when we feel it. Stories are told that reflect the essence of the actual story of Christmas—the coming of the Savior into the world. The message of these stories comes through, whether the stories themselves are true or not.
For example, a powerful story is told of a World War I battle that took place on Christmas Eve. As the evening wore on, fighting between the Germans and the British finally gave way to a confusing silence. After a short while, a lone soldier began singing “Silent Night.” Slowly others joined in until soldiers from both sides were singing together. Remarkably, it is told the soldiers ended up spending the evening together playing a game of soccer rather than fighting.1 Whether this story is true or not, nobody knows for sure. But that’s not so important, because the story exemplifies the true spirit of Christmas.
The holiday season can be quite stressful with so much to prepare. It can feel as if we’re fighting a battle, especially in a crowded shopping mall. The noisy commercialization of the holidays may at times obscure the real meaning of Christmas. But in a moment of silence, we can hear the mirthful sounds that bring the Christmas spirit into focus: extra expressions of courtesy around the dinner table, friendships rekindling next to a crackling fire, children unwrapping presents and squealing with delight. While some aspects of the holiday season may seem artificial, that wonderful feeling, the true spirit of Christmas that brings people together—even enemies—that much we know is definitely real.
Program #3772
1. The Utah Statesman, December 10, 1984.